Dancalan Beach Resort Because of its shallow waters and coral reefs teeming with marine life, the place is ideal for snorkeling. On its beach front, there are several concrete picnic cottages, including a store and canteen. Across the road is a resort hotel offering air-conditioned rooms and a swimming pool. The resort is located just off the road as one enters the Bulusan poblacion from the town of Barcelona.

San Juan de Bautista in Tabaco AlbayThe church of San Juan Bautista in Tabaco City According to Father De Huerta, the recorded history of the city of Tabaco began in 1587 through the missionary work of the Franciscan Fathers. A church dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the city’s patron saint, was first built in Tabaco in 1616 by Fr. Pedro De Alcareso. The construction of the present church started in 1864 and was completed in 1879. The Tabaco Church is unique among Philippine churches because the stones used to build the church bears the distinct marks of the Masons.

Irosin’s Hilltop church sits atop a hill situated right in the center of town. It affords churchgoers and visitors a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding countryside beyond, including the peak of Mt. Bulusan, which, at this vantage point, appear almost near enough to grab. The church can be reached via a hundred-step concrete stairs going straight up the hill until one reaches the massive 2-door entrance into the interior of the old church at the top of the stairway.

Daraga church The 17th century Daraga Church in Albay province is now recognized as one of the country's historical treasures. Nestled on top of a hill, the church which was built by Franciscan missionaries in 1773,is known for its baroque architectural designs. The church contains archeological relics of saints and rare religious seals engraved on volcanic rocks throughout its entire façade including the belfry. Nuestra Señora de la Porteria is the patroness. (pix from Trekearth)

1. Riding the Banca to Paguriran Island 2. Barcelona Church 3. Huts in one of the Bacon Beach resorts